NFL Trade Rumors: Houston Texans Have an Eye on an OLB Trade

The Houston Texans sure could use some help at linebacker. According to reports, they may have just zeroed in on some belonging to the Miami Dolphins.

You have to drag through some pretty deep mud to wrench free NFL trade rumors. This is a league that doesn't give too much away off the field. However, we have you covered on a potential trade brewing between one contender and a team on the outs.

There is hope in Houston. The loss of Andre Johnson is huge, but they can get by without him until he returns. The bigger hurdle is life without Mario Williams.

The defense is far softer without him, but there are two solutions that will be considered moving forward. ESPN's Tim Kavanagh reports the Texans will look to rookie Brooks Reed, but are also considering a trade for a proven vet at outside linebacker.

Gil Brandt of NFL.com writes that making a deal with the Miami Dolphins for Jason Taylor would be a logical move. Taylor could likely be had for a late-round pick, and might excel in a situational role for Wade Phillips' defense.

The report also asserts what many already know. Trades in the NFL are pretty rare. The Texans have to be convinced that Jason Taylor could indeed be had for as little as a late-round pick, and that he would produce.

On the other hand, Reed may be a rookie, but he already knows the defense and is accustomed to its players. Defense is all about chemistry. If Reed can prove his mettle on Sunday against the Ravens, the Texans will back off any trades.

The Dolphins could use as many picks as they can get their hands on as they wallow in the basement.

This seems like a no-brainer. However, in the NFL, trades are never this simple.